Trundle Manor: Unleashing the Macabre in Pittsburgh

Welcome to Trundle Manor, the macabre art museum and oddity tourist trap located in the heart of Pittsburgh, PA. This unique establishment, founded by artist couple Anton and Rachel Miriello, is home to an extraordinary collection of cryptozoology, vintage taxidermy, and jarred specimens. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the fascinating history of Trundle Manor, explore its intriguing exhibits, and provide you with all the information you need to plan a visit to this one-of-a-kind attraction. So, buckle up and get ready to uncover the secrets of Trundle Manor!

History: From Childhood Fascination to Public Attraction

Trundle Manor’s story begins in 2007 when Anton and Rachel Miriello acquired a Victorian property that would later become the infamous Trundle Manor. Both Anton and Rachel developed a fascination with the macabre from a young age, influenced by gothic culture, steampunk aesthetics, and classic horror films. Their passion for collecting oddities led them to amass a private collection that would eventually be shared with the public.

“I’ve been collecting since I was a little kid,” reminisces Mr. Arm, as Anton Miriello is affectionately known.

In 2009, the doors were open to the public, attracting thousands of visitors each year. This hidden gem of Pittsburgh quickly gained attention as a place of interest, featured in various media outlets and even making an appearance on “MTV’s Extreme Cribs” in 2011. Beyond offering tours, Trundle Manor also hosts a range of events, including taxidermy classes, art exhibitions, and comedy shows. The eccentric couple has even taken their collection on the road as a traveling ‘creep show,’ captivating audiences across the country.

Exhibits: Unveiling the Bizarre

At Trundle Manor, visitors are greeted by a plethora of peculiar exhibits, each with its own captivating story. One of the most notable displays is the centerpiece of their human reliquary, Olivia’s Singing Tumor. This unique exhibit features a large benign tumor encased in a glass jar, accompanied by a musical contraption that produces an eerie melody. The tumor was donated by a belly dancer, who requested that it be put on display for all to see.

“Olivia’s Singing Tumor is a testament to the strange and fascinating objects you’ll encounter at Trundle Manor,” says Velda Von Minx, also known as Rachel Miriello.

As you explore the museum, you’ll come across a wide array of vintage taxidermy, jarred specimens, and intriguing artifacts. Each exhibit tells a story and offers a glimpse into this unconventional world. From bizarre creatures of cryptozoology to curiosities that defy explanation, there’s something to captivate the imagination of every visitor.

Planning Your Visit: What You Need to Know

If you’re intrigued by the macabre and want to experience the wonders of Trundle Manor for yourself, there are a few important details to keep in mind. The museum operates on an appointment-only basis, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience for each visitor. To schedule a tour, you can either text Mr. Arm at 412-916-5544 or fill out the contact form on the Trundle Manor website.

Tour Rules and Guidelines

As you prepare for your visit, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the tour rules and guidelines established by Trundle Manor. These guidelines ensure the safety of both visitors and the unique artifacts on display. Here are some key points to remember:

  • Notify for larger groups: If you plan to visit with a group of more than eight people, it’s important to inform them in advance.
  • Young children should be held: To prevent any accidental damage, children under the age of four should be held by an adult throughout the tour.
  • No touching: While the exhibits may be intriguing, it’s important to refrain from touching any of the artifacts.
  • No public bathroom: Trundle Manor does not have public restroom facilities, so it’s advisable to plan accordingly.
  • Don’t forget to donate: Trundle Manor operates on a donation basis, and visitors are encouraged to contribute items of interest to the collection. These donations can range from money to dead things, medical devices, old cleavers, or anything creepy that aligns with the museum’s aesthetic.

Tour Appointment Hours

To accommodate visitors’ schedules, they will offer tour appointments during specific hours throughout the week. The available tour appointment hours are as follows:

  • Monday Evenings
  • Thursday Evenings
  • Friday Evenings
  • Weekend Afternoons/Evenings

Please note that tour availability may vary, and it’s best to book your tour in advance. They do not schedule tours around holidays, especially Halloween, to ensure the best possible experience for visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

To help you prepare for your visit to Trundle Manor, here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

  1. How much does the tour cost? There is not have a standard donation fee. However, they accept various forms of contribution, including money, dead things, medical devices, old cleavers, booze (excluding beer), or anything else that aligns with the museum’s unique aesthetic.
  2. How long does the tour last? On average, the tours will run for approximately 45 minutes. The duration may vary depending on the group and their level of engagement with the exhibits.
  3. How many people can join a tour? Trundle Manor can accommodate tour groups ranging from one to ten people, ages four and up. If you plan to visit with a group larger than eight, it’s essential to inform the museum in advance.
  4. What exactly is Trundle Manor? Trundle Manor is a place that defies easy categorization. It is a collection of oddities, curiosities, and macabre artifacts that invite visitors to explore the bizarre and unusual. For more information, you can visit the Trundle Manor website or check out their dedicated page on “What is Trundle Manor.”
  5. When can I visit Trundle Manor? Tours  are by appointment only, and last-minute requests are not always accommodated. It’s advisable to reach out to Mr. Arm via the contact page on their website as soon as possible to secure your tour.

A Bona Fide Tourist Trap: Uncovering the Unusual

This place is more than just a museum; it’s a bona fide tourist trap that promises to leave you and your family astounded and questioning the limits of the bizarre. A visit to Trundle Manor is an opportunity to explore a world unlike any other, where the macabre and the extraordinary converge. Prepare to amaze your friends with tales of your encounter with the strange and unusual at Trundle Manor.

Embrace the Unconventional at Trundle Manor

As we conclude our exploration of Trundle Manor, we hope you’ve gained a deeper understanding of this peculiar establishment. From its fascinating history to its captivating exhibits, Trundle Manor offers an experience that transcends the ordinary. If you have an appreciation for the macabre, the unusual, and the bizarre, a visit to this incredible place is an absolute must. Embrace the unconventional, step into a world of wonders, and prepare to be enthralled by the mysteries that await you at Trundle Manor in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

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